The Dysport Difference: Comparing Longevity to Other Neurotoxins

David Fuller

Last Updated On: June 20, 2024

Recent findings from a study in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology highlighted that Dysport injections outperform other neurotoxin injections like Botox and Xeomin in terms of longevity. 

This explains Dysport’s popularity for wrinkle reduction: it’s effective and has a longer-lasting effect than many alternatives. This approach requires fewer treatments, making it an ideal choice for those seeking to maintain a youthful appearance with minimal effort.

This article will explore how Dysport stands out from other treatments, examining its longevity, how it works, and why people often choose it.

Key Takeaways

• Dysport injections offer enhanced longevity over competitors like Botox and Xeomin, necessitating fewer sessions.
• It works by temporarily inhibiting muscle actions that lead to frown lines, ensuring a natural-looking reduction in facial lines while preserving genuine expressions.
• Compared on a per-unit basis, Dysport is generally more cost-effective than Botox and Xeomin. However, total treatment costs may align due to differing dosage requirements.
• Dysport’s fast action and ability to spread more broadly make it especially suitable for larger areas like the forehead, contributing to its preference for creating a more natural appearance.
• Individual factors such as age, skin type, and muscle mass significantly influence the longevity of Dysport’s effects, emphasizing the need for personalized treatment plans.

Understanding Dysport

What Is Dysport?

Dysport (abobotulinumtoxinA) is a prescription injection that temporarily improves moderate to severe frown lines between the eyebrows in adults under 65. It offers a natural-looking reduction of facial lines and is celebrated for maintaining authentic facial expressions​​​​.

Mechanism of Action of Dysport

Dysport targets muscle contractions that cause frown lines. It is administered through injections at specific points between and above the eyebrows, subtly hinting that Dysport can be effectively used in areas under the eyes. This treatment temporarily prevents the muscle actions that cause these lines, leading to a smoother appearance of the skin. The process is designed to produce natural and not overly altered results.

Unique Features of Dysport

Dysport is recognized for its fast-acting nature, with some patients seeing improvement in as little as 24 hours after treatment. Typically, the visible results emerge within 2-3 days. The effects of Dysport can last up to 5 months, depending on the individual’s response to the treatment. Patients appreciate the minimal downtime, allowing them to resume their day-to-day activities shortly after the procedure​​.

Dysport vs. Botox

Formulation Differences

Dysport and Botox are forms of botulinum toxin used to relax muscles and reduce the appearance of wrinkles. Dysport is formulated as abobotulinumtoxinA, while Botox is onabotulinumtoxinA. Despite these differences, they work similarly by blocking nerve signals to the muscles, reducing muscle activity, and smoothing the skin. 

However, Dysport is generally considered to have a quicker onset of action due to its slightly different protein formulation, which might also contribute to its spread over a larger area​​​​.

Duration of Effect

Dysport and Botox typically last between 3 to 6 months, often with follow-ups around the fourth month. While individual responses vary, some evidence and patient reports suggest Dysport may offer slightly longer-lasting effects for some people, especially in treating certain areas like the forehead. 

Areas of Best Use

Dysport may have a faster onset and might be more effective for larger areas like the forehead due to its ability to spread more. This can create a more natural look by avoiding a sharp distinction between treated and untreated areas. 

However, this spreading effect must be used carefully to avoid affecting unintended muscles. Botox might be more suitable for smaller, targeted areas like the crow’s feet around the eyes, where precise application is crucial​​​​.

Cost Considerations

Dysport tends to be cheaper than Botox on a per-unit basis. However, because it often requires more units to achieve a similar effect, the overall cost of treatment with either product may be similar. Patients should discuss with their provider to understand how pricing might differ based on the specific results they desire​​​​.

Dysport vs. Xeomin

Formulation Differences

Dysport and Xeomin are designed to smooth wrinkles by blocking nerve signals to muscles, but they differ significantly in their formulations. Dysport contains additional proteins, which may act as a protective shield and prolong its effect. 

In contrast, Xeomin is a “naked” neurotoxin, containing only the active botulinum toxin type A. Its lack of protein might reduce the chance of resistance or allergic reactions. This absence of protein also allows Xeomin to be stored at room temperature, offering advantages in transport and storage​​.

Duration of Effect

Dysport and Xeomin show results generally lasting between 3 to 6 months, but individual responses can vary. Dysport is known for its quick action, often showing results within 24 hours of injection. Xeomin may take 3-4 days to manifest noticeable results. 

Areas of Best Use

Xeomin is particularly effective for treating fine lines and is also FDA-approved for forehead lines. However, it is used off-label for areas such as under the eyes, above the lips, and around the nose. On the other hand, Dysport can also be used off-label for treating the chin, neck, bunny lines, around the lips, and nasolabial folds​​.

Cost Considerations

While the average cost of Dysport per unit is generally lower than that of Xeomin, the overall cost-effectiveness depends on the longevity of the results and the frequency of treatments needed. Despite having a higher per-unit cost, Xeomin may offer more durable effects for some individuals, making it a more cost-effective choice in the long run​​.

Factors Influencing Longevity of Results

Patient-Specific Factors

The longevity of results from Dysport or any other neurotoxin treatment can significantly vary from one individual to another. Factors such as age, skin type, muscle mass, and the body’s metabolic rate play a crucial role. For example, younger patients with stronger muscle activity may metabolize the toxin faster, leading to a shorter duration of effect.

Treatment Area Considerations

The specific area being treated also determines how long the effects of Dysport will last. Treatments in areas with less muscle activity, such as the crow’s feet around the eyes, may have longer-lasting results than areas with more dynamic movement, like the glabella (the area between the eyebrows). 

The inherent differences in muscle activity and skin thickness across treatment areas necessitate a tailored approach to neurotoxin administration​​.

Technique and Dosage

The practitioner’s expertise and the technique used in administering Dysport affect the outcome and duration of its effects. Precise placement and the correct dosage of Dysport are essential to achieving desired results while minimizing side effects. Over- or under-dosage can impact the effectiveness and longevity of the treatment’s outcome​​​​.

Making an Informed Choice

Evaluating the Right Neurotoxin for Your Needs

Choosing the right neurotoxin involves understanding the differences between Dysport and its counterparts, like Botox and Xeomin. While all three are derived from botulinum toxin, their formulations, onset times, diffusion rates, and longevity of effect can vary. Personal goals, the areas to be treated, and how your body has responded to previous treatments (if any) should guide your choice​​​​.

The Role of the Aesthetic Professional

An experienced aesthetic professional is vital to making an informed decision. Their expertise in evaluating your facial anatomy, understanding your aesthetic goals, and knowing the subtle differences between neurotoxin products can provide guidance tailored to your needs. Choosing a provider well-versed in the latest techniques and product formulations ensures a higher likelihood of achieving satisfactory results​​​​.

Importance of Personalized Consultation

A personalized consultation cannot be overstated. This discussion should cover your medical history, previous treatments, and expectations. It’s an opportunity for the provider to outline realistic outcomes, discuss potential side effects, and recommend the best treatment plan. This step is crucial for aligning your goals with the treatment’s possibilities, enhancing satisfaction with the results​​​​.

Conclusion

Dysport stands out in the competitive landscape of neurotoxin treatments due to its longer duration of effect, fast-acting nature, and cost-effectiveness. It represents an attractive option for those seeking to reduce the appearance of wrinkles with fewer treatments and minimal downtime. 

Choosing the right treatment depends on individual goals, specific areas of concern, and personal responses to previous treatments, emphasizing the importance of consulting with an experienced aesthetic professional for personalized advice.

FAQs

1. What is Dysport?

Dysport is a prescription injection that temporarily improves the look of moderate to severe frown lines between adult eyebrows. It is known for its natural-looking results and ability to maintain authentic facial expressions.

2. How does Dysport work?

Dysport targets muscle contractions that cause frown lines, temporarily preventing these muscle actions and resulting in smoother skin.

3. How long does Dysport last compared to Botox and Xeomin?

Dysport and Botox typically last between 3 to 6 months, with some evidence suggesting Dysport may offer slightly longer-lasting effects for some individuals, especially in larger areas like the forehead.

4. Are there any specific areas where Dysport is most effective?

Dysport may be more effective for larger areas like the forehead due to its ability to spread more. This creates a natural look by avoiding a sharp distinction between treated and untreated areas.

5. What are the cost considerations when choosing Dysport, Botox, and Xeomin?

While Dysport tends to be cheaper per unit than Botox and Xeomin, the overall cost of treatment with either product may be similar due to the different dosages required to achieve the desired effect.

References

Healthline Editorial Team. (n.d.). Dysport: What You Need to Know. Healthline. Retrieved from https://www.healthline.com/health/dysport 

Curology Team. (n.d.). Dysport vs. Botox: Comparing Two Popular Anti-Wrinkle Treatments. Curology. Retrieved from https://curology.com/blog/dysport-vs-botox-comparing-two-popular-anti-wrinkle-treatments/ 

Osman, D. (n.d.). Dysport vs. Botox: The Ultimate Comparison. Dr. Osman Dermatology. Retrieved from https://drosman.com/blog/dysport-vs-botox/ 

Cleveland Clinic. (n.d.). AbobotulinumtoxinA Injection. Retrieved from https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/19156-abobotulinumtoxina-injection WebMD. (n.d.). Dysport Intramuscular: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Pictures, Warnings & Dosing. Retrieved from https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-153182/dysport-intramuscular/details